Oh, Oh, Oh, It’s Magic! Building Magic Systems in Fiction.

It’s a staple in the worlds of fantasy fiction. Not just that, but you also encounter it in some sci-fi tales and quite a few of the various “-punks” that scatter the literary landscape. But outside of just copying the classics, how do writers actually put together a system of magic that makes sense in their settings?

How much thought do you put into your magic systems in fantasy (or even sci-fi in some situations)? Is it similar to the world building or even like another character or setting in its own right?

HC Playa: How deeply I delve into the system rather depends on the story. Generally there are some things that I have to consider:

Does everyone use magic?Is it attached to divinity/religion?Is it innate or conferred through special objects or rituals?Do all beings in the world use or view the magic similarly?

Ernest Russell: Great Topic! I have found codifying the basics is important. I liken it to Asimov’s laws of robotics.. here are the guidelines now, normally more than three, then ask can this work according to these guides in attempt not to break the system. Of course, someone often ends up breaking or trying to break the system. Intentional- they’re usually a villain. Unintentional – often the McGuffin for the story.

Marian Allen: In my fantasy trilogy, Sage, the “magic” and “religion” are pretty much the same thing. I did quite a bit of research and thinking and note-taking to separate this into two different attitudes/approaches, one of harmony and one of domination. I wouldn’t say the two are characters, but they certainly reflect and define the “good guys” and the “bad guys.”

Frank Fradella: When I write in a magical setting, it’s important for me that magic is vital to the story. If I can take magic out of the story and still tell the story, then I’m doing it wrong. For me, it can’t be something you tack on for flavor. Magic IS the setting.

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https://seanhtaylor.blogspot.com/2022/03/oh-oh-oh-its-magic-building-magic.html